20 Side Hustle Ideas To Make Extra Money in 2024

The traditional full-time job is evolving. Many of us find ourselves looking for creative, flexible ways to make extra cash. That's where side hustles come in. A side hustle is like your own mini-business you manage alongside your regular part-time or full-time job.

The side hustle trend is gaining momentum. A recent Bankrate survey reveals 39% of U.S. adults have already jumped on the side hustle bandwagon, and a whopping 44% believe they’ll always need one. Clearly, there's a growing recognition of the value and potential these flexible gigs offer.

There's no one-size-fits-all side hustle. A great side hustle allows you to capitalize on your skills, fits into your own schedule, and helps you meet your financial goals. Are you into podcasting or dog walking? Tutoring or providing virtual assistance? No matter your interests, we have you covered.

This guide presents 20 of the best side hustle ideas for 2024, each with its own unique advantages. Let's explore them and find the right gig for you.

Freelancing

The world of freelancing offers many opportunities where your unique talents can become your side gig. As independent talent, you’re essentially your own boss and juggle projects that align with your skills and interests alongside your day job.

Many business owners are in need of skilled services, from freelance writing and editing to graphic design or web development.

The beauty of freelancing lies in its flexibility and its potential to turn your spare time into a money-making venture. Let's explore some popular freelancing jobs.

Read Transcript
‍

Writing and editing services

As a writer or editor, your side gig could be producing engaging blog posts and insightful articles or lending your proofreading prowess to polish existing content. Businesses and individuals are always on the hunt for talented wordsmiths to help their messages stand out.

Skills required: Strong writing and editing abilities, a solid grasp of grammar and language, and a meticulous eye for detail

Platforms to find clients: Upwork is an excellent platform for writers and editors to connect with potential clients. You can find a multitude of projects across a range of topics that need your skills. You can also try other sites like Fiverr or Freelancer.com.

Potential earnings: Your earnings will depend on how many projects you take on and their complexity. On average, freelance writers and editors can expect to make around $20 to $30 per hour, but earnings can increase as you build your reputation and portfolio.

Graphic design and digital art

A graphic designer uses their creative skills and proficiency in design software to create visual elements, such as logos, brochures, and infographics. This could be the perfect side hustle if you’re creative, artistic, and familiar with design software.

‍Skills required: You'll need a strong grasp of design software like Adobe Creative Suite, creativity, and an eye for aesthetics. An understanding of current design trends is also a plus.

Platforms to find clients: Upwork is a popular platform for finding freelance graphic design work. Other options include Fiverr for smaller gigs and Etsy if you're looking to sell your own digital art.

Potential earnings: Your earnings will depend on the complexity of the projects you undertake and your level of experience. However, freelance graphic designers can generally expect to earn between $25 and $50 per hour.

Web development and design

If you know how to create and update websites, web development and design might be a good fit for you. You can make good money designing websites for small businesses or other online businesses.

Skills required: Proficiency in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript is a must. You'll also need a good understanding of user experience design, WordPress, troubleshooting abilities, and familiarity with web development tools.

Platforms to find clients: Upwork has many freelance web developer and web design jobs available. Some other options include Fiverr for smaller projects and platforms like GitHub Jobs and Stack Overflow Jobs for more specialized gigs.

Potential earnings: Earnings can range widely based on your level of expertise and the projects you take on. However, freelance web developers and designers typically earn anywhere between $15 and $30 per hour.

AI prompt engineering

Artificial intelligence (AI) prompt engineering is a burgeoning side hustle where you optimize text input to communicate with large language models. If you’re experienced in AI and machine learning (ML) and have some free time on your hands, this could be a good side hustle for you.

Skills required: A strong understanding of machine learning algorithms, programming skills, and familiarity with artificial intelligence platforms are key. You'll also need problem-solving skills and a strong attention to detail.

Platforms to find clients: You can find clients on Upwork, which hosts a range of AI and machine learning projects. Other platforms where you might find work include Fiverr and Freelancer.

Potential earnings: Due to the specialized nature of the work, you could expect to earn an average of $41 per hour.

E-commerce

E-commerce has exploded in popularity and is now one of the most accessible side hustles for anyone with an internet connection. With a wide array of business ideas at your fingertips, from reselling products to starting your own brand, e-commerce offers ample opportunities for side hustlers.

With varying degrees of upfront investment, you can scale your e-commerce gig based on your budget and time, making it a flexible option for generating side income. Whether you're flipping thrift store finds or creating unique handicrafts, e-commerce might be your way to make money online.

Drop-shipping

Drop-shipping is an e-commerce method where you sell products online without having to handle inventory or shipping. Instead, when a customer makes a purchase from your online store, you forward the order to a third-party supplier who fulfills the order for you. With efficient systems, drop-shipping can turn into a source of passive income.

Skills required: You'll need strong research skills to find profitable products and trustworthy suppliers, basic knowledge of e-commerce platforms, and customer service skills to address any issues that arise.

Platforms to start: Shopify is one of the most popular platforms for starting a drop-shipping business. Other options include BigCommerce and WooCommerce. You can also find drop-shipping freelance jobs on Upwork.

Potential earnings: Earnings for drop-shipping can vary widely depending on your products, pricing, and marketing efforts. But successful drop-shippers can make anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per month.

Print-on-demand merchandise

Print-on-demand merchandise allows you to sell custom-designed items like T-shirts, mugs, and posters without worrying about inventory or shipping. You create your designs and list them on a platform. When a customer makes a purchase, your print-on-demand provider prints the item and ships it directly to the customer. It's a creative way to earn extra income with minimal startup costs.

Skills required: You'll need some design skills and creativity. Familiarity with e-commerce platforms and basic marketing skills to promote your products would also be beneficial.

Platforms to start: Printify and Printful are popular print-on-demand providers that you can integrate with marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and Etsy to sell your merchandise.

Potential earnings: Earnings depend on the price of your products and the volume of your sales, but successful print-on-demand sellers can make anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per month.

Affiliate marketing

Affiliate marketing is about promoting other creators’ products and earning a commission for each sale made through your referral link. With the rise of social media apps and various subscriptions, many affiliate marketing opportunities now exist.

‍Skills required: You'll need to be persuasive and have a good understanding of digital marketing and social media. Also, being able to identify what products will resonate with your audience is key.

Platforms to start: Amazon Associates is one of the most well-known affiliate marketing programs. You could also consider ClickBank or ShareASale. You can also find affiliate marketing opportunities on Upwork. Many companies have their own affiliate programs, so it's worth checking out products you like or that align with your audience.

‍Potential earnings: The earning potential in affiliate marketing can vary a lot. It largely depends on the products you're promoting, the commission rate, and how effectively you can market them to your audience. However, successful affiliate marketers can make anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousand per month.

Content creation

Content is king. Whether you're an excellent wordsmith, have a voice for podcasting, know how to engage an audience on social media, or are skilled enough to create an online course, there's a place for you in content creation.

As a side job, content creation allows you to utilize your skill set, share your knowledge, and generate income. Let's dive into some of the most common content creation avenues to turn your passion into profit.

Blogging and vlogging

Blogging and vlogging are about sharing personal experiences, insights, or skills through written or video content. Whether you're passionate about cooking, traveling, or tech, you can share your interest and knowledge with the world via a blog, Twitch stream, or YouTube channel.

Skills required: You'll need strong writing skills for blogging and video editing skills for vlogging. It's also crucial to understand your target audience and create engaging content that speaks to them.

Platforms to find clients: If you're interested in blogging, you can find freelance blog writing gigs on Upwork. As a vlogger, YouTube is the most popular platform for hosting your content.

Potential earnings: Earnings can vary greatly based on the niche, audience size, and monetization strategy. The average YouTuber only makes $0.018 per view, so the number of views needs to be quite high for earning real money. The average blogger makes around $45,000 per year.

Podcasting

Podcasting lets you share your voice and views on topics ranging from personal finance (like managing student loans or credit cards) to true crime or pop culture. As a podcaster, you can connect with audiences who share your interests by creating engaging conversations and informative segments.

Skills required: Strong communication skills are crucial. You'll also need a good understanding of your chosen topic, basic audio recording and editing skills, and a knack for storytelling.

Platforms to find clients: While podcasting is usually self-started (you can post on Apple Podcasts and Spotify), there are related jobs like podcast editing or voice-over work that you can find on platforms like Upwork.

Potential earnings: Much like blogging and vlogging, your earnings as a podcaster can greatly vary. It depends on factors such as the size of your audience, sponsorship deals, and advertising rates. The average podcast host makes $15.52 per hour.

Social media influencing

Social media influencing involves using platforms like Instagram and TikTok to build a following and engage with an audience. Influencers often collaborate with brands to promote products or services, turning their popularity into profit.

Skills required: This gig requires creativity, strong communication skills, and a deep understanding of social media trends and platform algorithms. Building a large, engaged follower base is also crucial.

Platforms to find clients: Influencers often find work through brand partnerships and sponsorships. Platforms like Upwork have sections dedicated to influencer marketing. Many influencers grow organically and are approached by brands directly or through influencer agencies.

Potential earnings: Earnings can vary dramatically depending on your follower count, engagement rate, and the platforms you use. Micro-influencers (with 10,000 to 50,000 followers) may make $50 to $500 per post, while high-profile influencers can earn thousands or even tens of thousands per post.

Virtual assistant

Ranging from administrative tasks and technical assistance to creative services, virtual assistance is a growing avenue for side hustlers seeking flexible, remote work schedules. Whether it's managing schedules, handling correspondence, or helping with social media management, being a virtual assistant can be a great side job.

Social media management

As a social media manager, you handle a client's social media profiles, develop strategies, create content, schedule posts, and engage with followers. It's a good side hustle for those adept at using social media platforms and understanding their algorithms.

Skills required: Strong understanding of different social media platforms, content creation, marketing strategies, and good communication skills are essential.

Platforms to find clients: Upwork and TaskRabbit are excellent platforms for finding freelance social media management work. You can also offer your services on LinkedIn and directly approach businesses.

Potential earnings: Your earnings will depend on the scale and complexity of the projects you undertake. Generally, freelance social media managers can expect to earn between $14 and $35 per hour.

Bookkeeping

Bookkeeping involves managing a client's financial records, including tracking revenues and expenses, processing invoices, and preparing financial reports.

Skills required: You'll need strong numerical skills, proficiency in accounting software like QuickBooks or Xero, and a meticulous attention to detail. Familiarity with financial reporting is a plus.

Platforms to find clients: Upwork is a good place for finding freelance bookkeeping jobs. You can also network on LinkedIn or offer your services to local businesses directly.

Potential earnings: Freelance bookkeepers can generally expect to earn between $11 and $25 per hour.

Data entry virtual assistant

As a data entry virtual assistant, your role involves accurately inputting and organizing information into databases or spreadsheets.

Skills required: Attention to detail, fast and accurate typing skills, familiarity with data entry software, and basic computer literacy are essential for this role.

‍Platforms to find clients: You can discover data entry gigs on platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, or Fiverr, where businesses often seek virtual assistants for various tasks.

Potential earnings: Data entry virtual assistants typically earn around $10 to $20 per hour, depending on the complexity and volume of the tasks.

Real estate assistant

As a real estate assistant, you'll be helping real estate agents with tasks such as managing property listings, scheduling showings, liaising with potential buyers or renters, and assisting with marketing efforts.

Skills required: You'll need excellent organizational skills, strong communication abilities, and a basic understanding of the real estate market. Proficiency with real estate listing platforms and customer relationship management software can also be advantageous.

Platforms to find clients: Freelancers can find work as real estate assistants on platforms like Upwork. Another useful platform is LinkedIn, where you can connect directly with real estate professionals in need of assistance.

Potential earnings: The income for this role can vary based on your level of experience and the specific tasks involved, but the average hourly rate for real estate assistants is $18.16.

Online teaching

Online tutoring side hustles offer a flexible and rewarding way to share your expertise in academic subjects or language instruction with students in need, all from the comfort of your home.

If you excel in math, science, languages, or humanities, or have a flair for teaching English or other languages, online tutoring platforms provide opportunities to earn additional income on your own schedule.

Tutoring academic subjects

Tutoring in academic subjects allows you to share your expertise in specific fields, such as mathematics, sciences, languages, and humanities, with students who need help. You'll be assisting with homework, preparing students for exams, and helping them understand difficult concepts.

Skills required: To be an academic tutor, you need in-depth knowledge in the subject you'll be tutoring, strong communication skills, patience, and an ability to teach concepts in an easy-to-understand manner.

Platforms to find clients: Freelance tutors can find work on platforms like Upwork. Check out available math tutoring and STEM tutoring jobs. Other useful platforms include Chegg Tutors and Tutor.com, which cater specifically to the academic tutoring market.

Potential earnings: Freelance tutors can expect to earn between $15 and $100 per hour.

Language instruction

Teaching a language as a tutor allows you to help students improve their language skills, including speaking, reading, writing, and comprehension. This could involve teaching English or another language to non-native speakers, helping students prepare for language exams, or providing conversational practice.

Skills required: You need fluency in the language you'll be teaching, strong communication skills, and patience. Experience with teaching or a certification in language instruction can also be helpful, such as TEFL to teach English.

Platforms to find clients: Language tutors can find clients on Upwork, Preply, or Italki. These platforms cater to a global audience, increasing the likelihood of finding students.

Potential earnings: Language tutors can typically expect to earn about $30 per hour.

Music or art lessons

Offering music or art lessons allows you to share your expertise and passion with students eager to learn creative skills.

Skills required: Proficiency in the chosen musical instrument or art form, effective teaching methods, patience, and the ability to adapt to students' learning styles are crucial.

Platforms to find clients: Utilize platforms like TakeLessons, Lessonface, or Superprof to connect with potential students interested in learning music or art.

Potential earnings: Earnings can vary widely based on your skill level, the demand for your expertise, and the location, but music or art instructors often make around $16 to $30 per hour.

Home and personal services

Home services cover a diverse range of tasks that typically involve providing specific services to homeowners, such as landscaping, repairs, cleaning, and more. For instance, you could walk dogs, a job that keeps you active and enables you to spend time outdoors.

Cleaning services are also in high demand, especially for Airbnb hosts looking to maintain their properties.

Since these jobs generally require that you are physically present, you’ll need a car or other means of transportation. Let's explore some of these home services in greater detail.

Food or grocery delivery

You could join the services gig economy with grocery or food delivery through platforms like DoorDash, Uber Eats, or Instacart. In food or grocery delivery gig jobs, you transport orders from restaurants or stores to customers' locations.

Skills required:  Good time management, navigation skills, customer service, and the ability to handle food safely are essential for this role.

Platforms to find clients: Platforms like DoorDash, Uber Eats, Instacart, and Postmates connect you with delivery opportunities.

Potential earnings: Earnings vary based on location, tips, and order volume, but delivery drivers can make around $10 to $20 per hour, plus tips.

Dog walking and pet sitting

As a dog walker or pet sitter, you care for people's pets, providing services like feeding, walking, and playing with them.

Skills required: You’ll want to have a love for animals, patience, reliability, and physical stamina.

Platforms to find clients: Try finding work on Rover, Wag, Petsitter.com, or Care.com.

‍Potential earnings: Dog walkers make between $15 and $30 per hour.

Babysitting

As a babysitter, you care for children while their parents are away, keeping them safe, feeding them, and engaging them with games or educational activities.

Skills required: Great babysitters have patience, communication skills, creativity, and basic first aid skills.

Platforms to find clients: Some of the top places to find babysitting work are Care.com, Sittercity, and Babysits.

Potential earnings: On average, babysitters can earn between $10 and $20 per hour.

What is the best way to start a side hustle?

Starting a side hustle doesn't have to be hard. It's all about figuring out what you're good at, what you enjoy, and how much time you have. You might be good at a language, or maybe you're a whiz at graphic design. Maybe you love writing or programming. Whatever it is, your skills and interests can guide you to the right side hustle.

When you’re ready to get connected and find your first freelance job, check out Upwork. Upwork connects freelancers with potential clients, offering a broad range of opportunities to turn your skills into a profitable side gig. It's a one-stop shop for various freelancing services such as writing, graphic design, web development, and more.